Elaeagnus macrophylla
Family: Elaeagnaceae
What it is like
A large spreading shrub. It grows 3 m tall. It spreads 3.5 m wide. The leaves are broadly oval and covered with silvery scales. The upper surface becomes green. The flowers are silvery and fragrant. The fruit are red and scaly. They are 3 cm across. They are edible.
There are 45 Elaeagnus species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows in full sun or light shade. It grows near seashores. It is tolerant of wind and coastal exposure. It is resistant to frost and drought. It suits hardiness zones 7-10.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Australia, Central Asia, China, Japan (country/location of origin), Korea, Taiwan, Tajikistan
How it is used for food
The fruit need to be fully ripe and can then be eaten raw or cooked. The seed can be eaten fresh or cooked. They are often steamed and dried.
Edible parts
Fruit, seeds
How it is grown
It can be grown from seeds. Seeds do not grow easily. It can be grown from cuttings.
It is fast growing. In China plants flower on September and October and fruit March to May.
Its other names
Local names
Ppoldunamum Ppolttu, Ppolttunamu